What is SIDES?

Employers and third-party administrators (TPAs) are all too familiar with the challenges associated with responding to paper-based unemployment insurance (UI) information requests. The State Information Data Exchange System (SIDES) and SIDES E-Response are designed to make it easier and more efficient for employers and TPAs to respond to UI information requests.

What are SIDES and SIDES E-Response?
SIDES and SIDES E-Response are web-based systems available to employers and TPAs – free of charge – that provide a secure, electronic and nationally-standardized format to respond to UI information requests. SIDES is designed for employers and TPAs that typically deal with a large volume of UI information requests, while SIDES E-Response is for employers with a limited number of UI claims throughout the year.

What are the benefits of SIDES and SIDES E-Response?
SIDES and SIDES E-Response have the potential to significantly improve the UI information exchange process. While the best option depends on the specific needs of an employer, both systems offer significant benefits:

Saves time and money

Available for FREE

Reduces staff time

Reduces paper work

Helps keep UI rates as low as possible by reducing overpayments

Provides an electronic, nationally standardized data format

Includes data checks to ensure the exchange of complete and valid information

Provides tools for a healthier bottom line

We invite you to read more about SIDES and SIDES E-Response, and learn how both systems can help your company reduce paper work while saving time and money.

Both SIDES and SIDES E-Response have multiple layers of security. SIDES E-Response uses secure communication protocols, and SIDES requires authentication certificates and uses encrypted records and files. The highest standard of security is important given the sensitive data exchanged between state UI agencies and employers and TPAs.

IDES E-Response is best suited for employers or TPAs with a limited number of annual UI claims. It requires only a working internet connection and an employee who will enter the needed information. SIDES is best suited for larger employers facing many potential UI claims throughout the year. It provides a more automated data exchange interface between employers’ and TPAs’ IT systems and state agency networks.